Most designers I speak with think their portfolio is “pretty good.” And often, the case studies are actually good.But after reviewing 100s of portfolios over the years, I’ve noticed something:Many strong designers still struggle to get interviews.And it's not because they lack talent.It's because their portfolio leaves too many questions unanswered.I call this the invisible portfolio problem.The work might look great but the story around it is a bit unclear.Recruiters and hiring managers are...
6 days ago • 1 min read
Here’s what hiring managersexpect at mid-level One of the hardest parts of being a mid-level designer is this:The expectations change, but no one tells you they have.You’re no longer being evaluated like a junior. But you’re often still presenting your work that way.Here’s what hiring managers actually expect from a mid-level designer. 1. Ownership Junior designers are expected to contribute. Mid-level designers are expected to own parts of the work.It means being able to clearly answer: •...
about 1 month ago • 1 min read
When you need a portfolio right now Building a design portfolio is hard.Maintaining one is even harder.And yet, over and over again, I meet talented designers who don’t have one. Until suddenly they need one.Recently, I worked with two designers who had to pivot quickly into a job search. One due to a layoff, the other because they had hit a ceiling at their current role. Both were strong designers. Both were capable. And both were starting their portfolios from scratch, under pressure.This...
about 1 month ago • 2 min read
Junior → Mid → Senior: The Path Landing that first job is an awesome feeling. You’re a Junior Designer whose full of energy, caffeine, and ready to change the world. But once the dust settles a question always hits: How do I get to the next level?In my 25+ years in the industry I’ve hired and promoted designers at every stage. One thing I've learned is that the jump from Junior to Senior isn’t about how many years you’ve been designing. It’s about a clear shift in responsibility, scope, and...
about 2 months ago • 2 min read
Most design jobs aren’t posted If you’re applying to design jobs and hearing nothing back, you’re not doing anything wrong. You’re just competing where everyone else is looking.Many design roles are filled before they ever appear online or never get posted at all. This is what people mean when they talk about the hidden job market.How designers can access it.The challenge with job boards (especially remote ones) Remote design roles are attractive for their flexibility, freedom, and access to...
about 2 months ago • 2 min read
The "Not Enough" trap. Last week, I sat down for a coaching session with a designer whose resume would make most people’s jaws drop. He’s a senior lead at one of the world’s most recognizable apps.His work? Stunning. His experience? Extensive. But as we began to look at his portfolio the conversation didn't start with his successes. Instead, it started with a confession: “I don’t think I’m good enough. I’m worried I won’t measure up to what the market expects right now.”It was a classic case...
2 months ago • 3 min read
AI Won't Replace Designers. This Will. As designers to serve people well, we must anticipate change and adapt quickly. I learned this lesson early in my career, transitioning from demanding agency work to leading large design teams in a supportive tech environment.The tech landscape is shifting again, faster than ever. And, it's driven by AI. Don't panic. Designers who anticipate this shift will lead it.Let's look at where your value truly lies in this new era. Shift: From busywork to...
4 months ago • 2 min read
You don’t need to have it all figured out Design your next career chapterWhether you’re job hunting, planning your next move, or ready to level up your design career I’ll help you create a plan that aligns with where you want to go next: ✓ Learn what hiring managers actually look for ✓ Get a roadmap for your next career move ✓ Find out what’s not working with your portfolio and how to fix it ✓ Refine your case studies to tell a clear, compelling story ✓ Communicate your value with clarity and...
4 months ago • 2 min read
Finding (and being) a mentor I wouldn’t be where I am today without mentors.Some saw potential I couldn’t see in myself yet. Others challenged me, pushed me, and gave me honest feedback when I needed it most. And now, as a coach and educator, I get to play that role for other designers. Something that’s just as fulfilling as it is humbling.The best mentorships I’ve seen share a few common traits: Clarity. The mentee knows what they’re working toward, and the mentor understands how to support...
5 months ago • 1 min read